Top 3 Mistakes Singapore Beginners Make When Learning Tennis – and How to Avoid Them

Top 3 Mistakes Tennis Beginners Make

Starting tennis as a beginner in Singapore is an exciting step toward a healthier lifestyle and a fun new skill. However, many beginners unknowingly make common mistakes that slow their progress or cause frustration. Recognizing these pitfalls early on can help you improve faster and enjoy the game more. Here are the top three mistakes Singapore beginners often make—and practical tips on how to avoid them.

1. Using the Wrong Grip

One of the biggest early mistakes is not learning the proper way to hold the racket. The grip affects your control, power, and accuracy for every stroke you make. Beginners often default to a grip that feels natural but limits their ability to execute forehands, backhands, and serves effectively.

How to Avoid:

Work with a qualified coach to learn the basic grips such as the Eastern or Continental grip. Practice holding the racket correctly during warm-ups and drills. Using instructional videos or apps tailored to Singapore’s tennis community can also reinforce good habits.

2. Overhitting Instead of Focusing on Control

Many beginners try to hit the ball as hard as possible, thinking power equals better play. This often leads to inconsistent shots, frequent errors, and fatigue. In Singapore’s humid climate, overexertion can make it harder to sustain long practice sessions.

How to Avoid:

Prioritize control over power in your early lessons. Focus on hitting the ball cleanly with proper technique and aiming for consistent rallies. Gradually build power once your strokes become more reliable. Controlled practice will help you last longer on court and build confidence.

3. Skipping Footwork Practice

Good footwork is the foundation of effective tennis play. Beginners frequently underestimate its importance and focus solely on racket skills. Poor footwork leads to slow court coverage, awkward swings, and missed shots—especially when playing in Singapore’s fast-paced social games.

How to Avoid:

Include footwork drills in every practice session. Simple exercises like side shuffles, ladder drills, and split-step timing can drastically improve your mobility. Many Singapore coaches incorporate footwork into beginner lessons, so pay close attention and practice regularly.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common beginner mistakes can accelerate your tennis journey in Singapore. Mastering the right grip, focusing on control, and practicing footwork will set a strong foundation for enjoyable and rewarding play. With the right mindset and consistent effort, you’ll find yourself improving steadily and loving the game even more.